Why be Protestant? As more Christians, particularly younger generations, explore Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy, questions about church history, biblical authority, tradition, and salvation are becoming increasingly important. Is Protestant Christianity simply a rejection of Catholicism, or is there a positive biblical and historical case for being Protestant?
In this episode of Truth Changes Everything, Dr. Fred Sanders, systematic theologian and professor at Biola University’s Torrey Honors College, joins us to explore what it means to be Protestant and why the distinctions between Protestantism, Catholicism, and Eastern Orthodoxy matter.
Together, they discuss whether Protestantism began with Martin Luther, the relationship between Scripture and church tradition, the meaning of sola Scriptura, and the biblical teaching of justification by grace through faith. They also consider what Protestants can learn from other Christian traditions, how to respond to criticisms of Protestant individualism and denominational division, and how Christians can navigate theological disagreements while remaining united around Jesus Christ.
Whether you’re a lifelong Protestant, exploring Catholicism or Orthodoxy, or simply seeking to better understand the foundations of your faith, this conversation will help you think more deeply about what you believe and why it matters.